Isn’t it nice to have a hot cup of coffee in seconds? For many coffee lovers, a one-cup coffee maker is a dream come true—no need to wait for Mr. Coffee to fill up. Minus the hassle of grinding beans every day. Also, getting rid all the extra steps in the equation.
Keurig machines offer tremendous convenience and little to no effort. Nowadays, you have a lineup of different models from the brand. Some use only K-cups, others can use ground coffee with reusable filters. You even get more machine-size variety to suit your countertop space.
From a full-blown K-Café to the Keurig Mini, the best Keurig coffee maker comes down to your needs.
Luckily, we’ve had the chance to research the most popular Keurig machines. We considered all the factors you might look for in a coffee maker and narrowed it down to the best.
If you’re yet to purchase a Keurig, keep reading for the top options.
The 7 Best Keurig Coffee Makers For Your Daily Dose of Caffeine
1. Keurig K-Elite – Best Overall
If you want to upgrade from an older Keurig, you’ll want to grab the K-Elite. It brings all the convenient features that you’re accustomed to, plus a few extra features. K-Elite has a premium finish for a modern design. It offers the best choice in beverage customization. As a result, you’re looking at the most versatile option in the Keurig line.
First, Keurig Elite allows you to program just about everything. Set it to start heating water a few minutes before you rise, and you’ll have a hot cup of joe as soon as your feet leave the bed. Moreover, you can make up to eight cups with a generous 75 oz reservoir.
K-Elite also has a cup size option. So, whether you want a minuscule 4 oz cup or a guzzler’s choice of 12 oz, all you do is press a button. And for those days you want a bolder cup, the strength setting gives you that option.
As far as versatility is concerned, K-Elite has an iced coffee option. This feature is beneficial since it preserves the coffee’s flavor when brewing over ice.
What about the days you’re not craving coffee? Well, this machine can also dispense hot water for a quick hot chocolate, tea, or instant oats.
Finally, you get to make a cup without waking up everyone else in the house, thanks to the K-Elite’s Quiet-Brew technology.
Pros
- It comes with five brew sizes: 4 oz, 6 oz, 8 oz, 10 oz, and 12 oz
- Removable drip tray for a travel mug
- Includes a free filter and water filter handle
- Automatic shut off
- Includes six K-Cup pods for free
- Available in three color choices: brushed gold, slate, or silver
Cons
- It does not have a display for modifying options
- It lacks a water level indicator
2. Keurig K-Classic – Most Basic Option
This model right here is what launched the Keurig brand into a single-serve icon. For as long as we can remember, the K-Classic has been a staple in many American households. It’s simple yet efficient.
Keurig K-Classic will give you piping hot coffee in under a minute. It comes with a fast-working heating element that makes it speedy. You don’t need to keep powering the machine on and off. You can program the auto on and off feature, so it’s ready to brew when you want and off when not in use.
Its simple interface presents three cup sizes from 6, 8, and 10 oz. So, if your favorite cup is grande, you have to make do with the 10 oz size. However, you get to fill up to four cups owing to its 48 oz reservoir. Thankfully, the water tank is removable. Plus, you can fill it under the sink.
If you’re out of K-cups, you can use a reusable coffee filter with ground coffee. It’s one of those advantages of choosing a K-Classic.
Lastly, cleaning is a breeze since it has a descale button. Your K-Classic will continuously operate at optimal levels.
Pros
- Programmable auto on and off
- It has a descale button
- It can use reusable coffee filters
- Four to five cups water reservoir capacity
- Value for money
Cons
- It lacks an LCD display
- It’s available in black and red only
3. Keurig K-Select – Fairly Compact
If you’re looking for a more advanced Keurig than the K-Classic but still affordable, Keurig K-Select is an excellent choice. It comes in a reasonably compact size so that it will fit on most countertops. Plus, it will match your kitchen décor thanks to its fun color options.
You still get a one-minute brew time. It has four cup choices from 6 to 12 oz. Furthermore, it can serve regular coffee or an intense cup with the strong brew option. Its water reservoir allows you to make up to six cups since it has a 52 oz capacity. Still, you’ll like that the reservoir and drip tray are removable. With the drip tray aside, you get space for a 7.4-inch cup, mostly a travel mug.
Also, the machine lights up when it’s time to add water.
Now, if you are not a K-Cup fan, K-Select is compatible with the K-Cup Universal, reusable coffee filter. You can buy your favorite beans, grind them at home with a good tool like the JavaPresse, and use them with this machine.
When it comes to cleaning and descaling, the K-Select gives you constant reminders. Your machine will always be in tip-top condition as long as you keep to its maintenance schedules.
Pros
- Removable drip tray and water reservoir
- Hot water on demand
- Quiet brew technology
- Come with a water filter handle, one water filter, and six K-Cups
- Strong brew settings
- Compatible with reusable coffee filters
Cons
- Water reservoir’s plastic appears cheap
4. Keurig K-Café for Lattes and Cappuccinos
So, you are not a fan of regular joe, go ahead and make dreamy foamed drinks with the K-Café. It’s not amateur hour with this model. You can make lattes, cappuccinos, and strong “shots” of espresso on K-Café.
Select from four brew options and four cup sizes. It has an easy-to-use and well-marked control panel. From there, you can select latte, cappuccino, coffee, strong, or shot for the brew. Then, use the built-in frother with a steaming cup for a bubbly drink.
You’ll like that the steaming cup comes with a lid so you can store milk in it. Not to mention you can clean the frother in the dishwasher. Hence, your morning routine will always be smooth.
This brand is not as programmable as the K-Elite. However, it allows you to program it for auto on and off. It has a smart start feature where you select your cup size as it heats the water. It will also automatically shut off after two hours of not being in use.
K-Café can use either regular K-cups or the K-Cup Universal. However, we recommend using the espresso roast K-Cups for a strong flavor. Furthermore, the shots are not authentic espresso. For that, you’ll need the best espresso maker.
Pros
- It comes with an iced drink option
- The milk frother is dishwasher safe
- 60-ounce water reservoir
- It can accommodate a 7.2-inch tall travel cup
- Cold setting for cold frothed milk
Cons
- Takes up ample countertop space
- Only nickel and charcoal color options
5. Keurig K-Supreme – Budget-Friendly
Keurig K-Supreme is the one pick we recommend for both newbies and coffee enthusiasts. This coffee maker is hard to beat in terms of versatility and customization. Anyone who likes a strong cup but likes it fast will enjoy brewing with the Keurig K-Supreme.
This model offers unparalleled customization for a single-serve machine. You can save the brewing preferences of up to three users.
If your morning jolt comes from a regular joe, go on and choose basic coffee. You can also make a bold or iced cup. Also, there are three temperature settings, although some argue that it doesn’t get hot enough.
Perhaps, the feature that sets this machine apart is its MultiStream technology. Instead of only one stream of water to feed the coffee, K-Supreme lets down five streams. It covers the coffee more evenly. Hence you get a full-flavored cup with a rich aroma.
K-Supreme resembles the K-Slim in that it’s only 8 inches wide and 12 inches tall. It can fit in a nifty space with no problem. What’s more, the reservoir can go in two positions to conform to different countertop configurations.
Pros
- 66 oz water reservoir
- Programs preferences
- MultiStream Technology
- Five drink sizes
- It can fit a travel mug
- Quiet operation
- Compact design
Cons
- Brew time is slower. It takes two minutes.
- Brewing with a reusable filter is not user-friendly
6. Keurig K155 Office Pro – For Small Offices
Monday blues get better when you have something to pull you out of your stupor. We are talking about the Keurig K155’s ability to follow your nine-to-five routine. It is the best Keurig coffee maker for office use due to its convenience.
You can’t go wrong with a pre-programmable machine to start brewing coffee at a particular time. Furthermore, it can withstand heavy use since it is UL-certified for commercial purposes.
Keurig K155 Office Pro can make up to 22 cups before the reservoir runs out. It can brew coffee, hot cocoa, tea, and iced beverage with the press of a button. You’ll be changing settings on an LCD. Hence, you can pick the ideal temperature or language fast and easily.
This model brews four cup sizes from 6 to 12 oz. However, it does not accommodate tall travel mugs. And it cannot use reusable water filters. However, you’ll also enjoy a noise-free office since it employs quiet brew technology.
You may not want to use K155 at home since it is the bulkiest and perhaps the most expensive Keurig. This unit is the best choice for communal use, where the budget for a high-quality coffee maker allows.
Pros
- Pre-programmable
- Large, 90 oz, removable reservoir
- Can brew hot and cold drinks
- Automatically shuts off
- Under one minute brewing time
- Easy-to-navigate settings
Cons
- Large and bulky
- Cannot brew with reusable coffee filters
7. Keurig K-Mini – Best for Small Countertops
The Keurig K-Mini’s main appeal is its size at only 5 inches wide; the K-Mini can fit just about anywhere. It includes your suitcase for the avid traveler. No worries about the cord because it tucks neatly behind the unit. Not to mention, it has room for nine K-Cup pods. It means you’ll have everything set in minutes.
The K-Mini has only one cup reservoir. You cannot refill the tank under a tap. As such, it is ideal for a single coffee drinker in any home. Besides, you’ll have fresh water to use every morning. Plus, you can still make other hot drinks like chocolate and cocoa. It’s for anyone who’s not looking to reinvent the wheel in home brewing.
As for the cup sizes, it can provide six to 12 oz cups. Also, the drip tray is removable to accommodate a travel-size mug that’s up to 7 inches tall. We like that it has an auto turn off after 90 seconds, which is the fastest in the line.
If you’re looking for a convenient coffee maker without lots of bells and whistles, the K-Mini is an excellent consideration.
Pros
- It’s only 5 inches wide
- Slim and sleek
- Available in black, pale grey, pale teal, and oasis
- Cord tucks behind the unit
- It fits a 7-inch travel mug
Cons
- You can only refill it in the sink
How to Choose a Keurig Coffee Maker?
A Keurig coffee maker will set you back a pretty penny. So, you’ll want to get the model that fits your needs and lifestyle.
Here are some essential features to look for in a Keurig coffee maker.
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Size
Most Keurig machines are space savers. That’s why you will find them in cluttered kitchens, dorm rooms, and offices. Still, you’ll need to keep in mind how much space you have for the machine. It’s good to remember that a large unit usually comes with some added features. Hence, if you have the room, you may benefit from the extras.
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Water Reservoir
How often do you brew coffee? If you only take a cup in the morning, a small water reservoir will not bother you. However, if you take three to four cups a day, it’s best to choose a unit with a large water reservoir. Having a bigger reservoir means less refilling for you.
Some units come with removable tanks. Others need a jug for refilling.
Also, a water tank with a handle is easier to refill and clean than one without. Hence, you’ll not be leaving fingerprints every time you fetch the tank.
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Brew Options
Keurig machines offer three, four, or five cup sizes. The cup size usually alters the coffee’s strength. For example, a 6 oz size will be stronger than a 12 oz size. The cup size also affects the number of brews you can get from a machine.
You’ll find options with regular, strong, and iced coffee. Others like the K-Café are handy if you want to bring Starbucks to your kitchen. It all depends on the type of cup you enjoy.
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Speed
As single-serve machines, you may notice delays if your model needs to heat for every cup. You’ll find some like the K-Elite heats water for about four to five minutes. Then it gives you instant hot water for the next cup.
Others, like the K-Mini, heat water for every cup. It means that if you want hot coffee, you’ll have to wait for a while. Considering that, it’s not ideal for a house full of coffee drinkers.
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Programmable Features
If you need your coffee straight out of bed, a programmable Keurig will come in handy. You can set the unit to heat water a few minutes before you wake up. So, you’ll not waste a single minute waiting.
Another programmable feature is the ability to save your preferences.
K-Supreme is a good example. It can program the choices of up to three users. This way, you don’t need to choose different settings whenever brewing your cup.
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Hot Water Option
If you like making tea from a tea bag or often need hot water for instant soup, it’s best to choose a model that can produce instant hot water. It can save you from using a hot water kettle.
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Quiet Brew Technology
It’s easy to overlook this feature. However, some users have said that it helps when you wake up earlier than the rest of the family. You won’t be the undesignated alarm clock of your household. It is also a nice feature in an office machine. You know how annoying it can get every time someone gets up to brew coffee.
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Price
As we said, Keurig coffee makers are not the cheapest options on the market. Furthermore, the price varies depending on the features of the model. In this case, it’s best to see if the features you want are within your price range.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do you clean your Keurig?
A clean Keurig means fresh brews and a seamless operation every time. If you don’t clean your machine, it’s easy for you to encounter issues like a machine that dispenses too little or too much coffee. For your machine to work seamlessly, you’ll want to undertake thorough cleaning and descaling every two to six weeks.
The first thing you’ll want to do is empty the machine’s reservoir and remove any filters. After that, you add a descaling solution to the water tank. This solution is usually a mixture of equal parts of water and vinegar. Finally, flush out the solution by running a brew cycle until you empty the reservoir.
The next thing is to run three cycles of clean water through the machine. This process removes any vinegary taste.
After this, wash the removable parts of the coffee maker. These include the water tank, lid, drip tray, and coffee pod holder. Air dry these parts and wipe down the exterior of the machine. Now you’re set for a fresh cup.
2. Are Keurig coffee makers good for the environment?
K-Cups have only recently become recyclable. Up until recently, they used to end up in a landfill. However, Keurig promised to roll out recyclable K-Cups made of polypropylene. While Keurig has not made a 2021 update on whether all available K-Cups are recyclable, it’s up to you to choose recyclable K-Cups.
You can also purchase a machine that uses a reusable coffee filter. This way, you can use ground coffee, then wash and reuse the coffee filter with your choice of ground coffee.
Read more on how you can enjoy coffee in an environment-friendly way.
3. Can you reuse a K-Cup in your Keurig?
No. As much as it’s tempting, and considering K-Cups’ price tag, you may think you’ll get away with squeezing another cup from a single K-Cup. However, you’ll end up with a flavorless cup of murky water. So, no, you cannot reuse a K-Cup.
4. Are there other varieties for K-Cups?
K-Cups have over 400 varieties ever since Keurig partnered with different brands. Plus, they don’t all serve coffee. You’ll find hot chocolate, cocoa, decaffeinated, and many others.
5. What’s the difference between a K-Cup and a coffee pod?
K-cup and coffee pods are very different. While both provide a single serving of coffee, a K-Cup uses plastic cups to store the ground coffee. On the other hand, coffee pods come in a package with filter paper and aluminum foil to preserve the freshness of the coffee. Coffee pods are not compatible with Keurig brewers. Also, you will not find a lot of brands that use coffee pods.
Conclusion
So, what’s the best Keurig coffee maker for you?
Your personal taste and needs will help you choose a suitable machine. The Keurig K-Elite is at the top, with its features and ease of use. It is the best choice for enthusiasts and families that love variety—the number one coffee maker for the real java addict. However, you’ll spend more on the extra features. If you’re a no-frills guy, we believe you’ll like the K-Classic. And if you can’t resist a foamy drink, go on and purchase the K-Café.
A Keurig coffee maker is the only machine you need from customizing your brew to value for speed.